Third-country nationals (TCNs) who live in Malta or are considering a move to the islands are facing changes to healthcare coverage. It’s important for TCNs and their families to understand what the changes are and how these could affect them.
The Maltese government announced these amendments to healthcare policy for third-country nationals in Legal Notice 105 of 2024. Within this document, details around how TCNs access healthcare while in Malta and regulations around who might pay for these services are described.
How many third-country nationals are there in Malta? Data shows that there were 8,256 work permits issued for TCNs in the year up to September 2024. As a TCN or family relation, it’s important to know which healthcare policies apply to you and what plan you should put in place for any payments you may have to make.
Contents
- Who are third-country nationals?
- What are the TCN healthcare changes in Malta?
- Which healthcare fees may be charged?
- Protective health insurance from GasanMamo.
Who are third-country nationals?
TCNs are people who are not European Union or European Economic Area (EEA) citizens, or Swiss, Norwegian, Icelandic and Liechtenstein nationals. TCNs typically need a Schengen visa to enter Malta, unless they are from a country that’s visa exempt.
A Schengen visa allows non-EU citizens to visit the Schengen area (including Malta) for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. TCNs may be in Malta for a number of reasons, including for work, study or family purposes.
If you’re a TCN in Malta, understanding the regulations will help you deal with any unexpected health issues should they arise.
What are the TCN healthcare changes in Malta?
It’s always a good idea to check the current healthcare regulations before you travel as guidance may change. Consider asking, ‘What is travel insurance?‘ to understand how it may cover unexpected healthcare costs. Your personal situation will influence whether you pay for some, all, or none of the healthcare you access. Here are some of the categories that explain who will be affected by the policy changes:
| Person profile | Will the changes apply? | Supporting information |
| Maltese citizens and children of Maltese citizens under the age of 18 | No | |
| Spouses of Maltese citizens | Possibly | The spouse of a Maltese citizen whose marriage is registered in Malta and with Maltese residency will be exempt. |
| TCN with valid work permit | No | Certain conditions need to be met, such as a valid permit, legal residency and active employment status. |
| University, MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology), ITS (Institute of Tourism) students | No | Students who study at these institutions are exempt. |
| Private language school students | Yes | Will need private health insurance. |
| TCNs with reciprocal healthcare agreements | No | Covered under specific agreements. |
| Any TCN not holding a valid work permit | Yes | Will need private health insurance. |
| MRVP/MPRP applicants and holders | Yes | Those on Malta Residence and Visa Programme (MRVP) or Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) are required to have private health insurance. |
Which healthcare fees may be charged?
Healthcare fees are likely to change over time and may not be fixed to previously set amounts. It’s helpful to ask about fees before you undergo any healthcare appointments or treatment so that you have clarity about what you may have to pay.
Typically, if you spend a night in hospital, you’ll pay for the bed. This can range from €198 for the Ophthalmic ward to €1,945 for the Cardiac intensive care unit. Outpatient visits can cost anything from €61 to €242, depending on the care and department.
Minor surgeries generally cost between €100-617, with major surgeries ranging from €1,178-2,642. If you need to attend diagnostic services, these can cost between €31-352. Complex major surgeries are generally expected to cost more in relation to the level of treatment required.
Protective health insurance from GasanMamo
Looking after yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive health insurance will give you peace of mind. What Does Health Insurance Cover? It ensures that if you need to get a health query checked out or follow a treatment plan, with health insurance you’ll already have cover in place so you won’t have to worry.
Preparing for the future will give you a foundation to live your life and know you’ll receive appropriate care if you have a health issue. Here at GasanMamo, we make sure you access the best health insurance for your situation.
Discover the right health insurance for you and your loved ones by searching our health insurance page or getting in touch for a chat with our team of experts.
GasanMamo Insurance is authorised under the Insurance Business Act and regulated by the MFSA.
Photo: © EVG Kowalievska from Pexels via canva.com
